Topical Janus Kinase Inhibitors for the Treatment of Pediatric Alopecia Areata

The document discussed the use of topical Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors, specifically tofacitinib and ruxolitinib creams, for treating pediatric alopecia areata (AA). Six pediatric patients were treated with these topical formulations, and four showed some hair regrowth. Notably, one patient experienced 95% regrowth with tofacitinib in a liposomal base after failing to respond to a non-liposomal base. The treatments were well-tolerated, with only mild laboratory abnormalities in two patients, which normalized after continued treatment. The study suggested that topical JAK inhibitors could be a promising option for AA, especially in children, and highlighted the need for further research to optimize treatment protocols.